College of Arts and Humanities
Music Performance
Bachelor of Music | Major
Bachelor of Music in Music Performance—Percussion, Wind, or String Specialization
The Music Performance, BM – Percussion, Wind, or String Specialization is designed for students dedicated to mastering their instrument and pursuing a career in music performance.
Our program emphasizes technical excellence, interpretive artistry, and ensemble collaboration. With mentorship, diverse performance opportunities, and a curriculum focused on your chosen instrument, you’ll graduate prepared to excel as a professional performer, educator, or collaborator. Whether you aim to perform with orchestras, chamber ensembles, or as a soloist, this program provides the expertise and experience to achieve your goals.
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Department of Music
At the Center of a Better Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Music Department Website
As a music major at CWU, you’ll join an applied studio tailored to your instrument or voice, with options including piano, percussion, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba, euphonium, and voice.
Core Courses
Music Theory
- MUS 144 - Theory 1
- MUS 144A - Aural Skills 1
- MUS 145 - Theory 2
- MUS 145A - Aural Skills 2
- MUS 146 - Theory 3
- MUS 146A - Aural Skills 3
- MUS 244 - Theory 4
- MUS 245 - Theory 5
- MUS 246 - Theory 6
Class Piano
- MUS 152A - Class Piano I
- MUS 153A - Class Piano II
- MUS 154A - Class Piano III
Applied Music
- Individual Instruction
- MUS 300 - Recital Performance
- MUS 400 - Recital Performance
- MUS 464 - Major Applied Area (Individual Instruction)
Upper-division Music Theory
- MUS 340 - Form and Analysis
Conducting
- MUS 341 - Conducting I
- MUS 342 - Conducting II
Music History
- MUS 359 - Survey of Music in Cross-cultural Perspectives
- MUS 372 - Music History 1
- MUS 373 - Music History 2
- MUS 374 - Music History 3
Required Courses
Primary Ensembles
- Wind Ensemble
- Symphonic Winds
- Orchestra
- Marching Band
- Symphonic Band
- Chamber Orchestra
Chamber Ensembles
- Flute Choir
- Brass Choir
- Chamber Music Ensemble
- Jazz Combo
- Percussion Ensemble
- Accompanying Practicum
Secondary Ensembles
- Chamber Orchestra
- Big Band
Upper-division Music Theory
- MUS 422 - Orchestration
Additional Courses
- Music Electives
- MUS 425 - Pedagogy (Studio)
- MUS 426 - Literature (Studio)
Instrumental Expertise
Hone your skills with personalized lessons and coaching tailored to your instrument, including technique, tone production, and artistry.
Diverse Ensembles
Perform in wind ensembles, orchestras, chamber groups, and percussion ensembles, gaining experience in collaborative and professional-level performance.
Advanced Repertoire
Explore and perform a wide range of repertoire specific to your instrument, from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions.
Career Preparation
Receive guidance in audition techniques, professional networking, and preparing for a career as a performer, teacher, or collaborator in the music industry.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Facilities
Access state-of-the-art practice spaces and perform on professional-grade instruments, ensuring you develop your skills in an optimal environment.
Faculty
Learn from faculty with extensive experience as performers and educators, offering personalized feedback and mentorship tailored to your career goals.
Scholarships
Take advantage of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for wind, string, and percussion students, supporting your path to success.
CWU Musicians Take Their Talent to the International Stage
A delegation of 12 CWU music students traveled to northern Italy this summer to participate in the Zephyr International Chamber Music Course and Festival, an immersive two-week experience that brought them together with world-class faculty and young performers from around the globe.
Through intensive rehearsals, performances, and cross-cultural learning, students gained a deeper understanding of the rigor and artistry required of professional musicians. Read about their experience.
Recent Alumni Success
Performers in Professional Symphonies
University Music Professor
Private Music Instructor